National Geographic Reportedly Sets Leadership Team Ahead of Disney Acquisition

National Geographic has reportedly set the leadership team for its TV branch in advance of the company’s move to Disney as a result of the acquisition of the 21st Century Fox assets, according to Variety.

Three top executives – Courteney Monroe, Carolyn Bernstein and Geoff Daniels – have received new deals in preparations for the move.

Monroe renewed her contract to remain president and CEO of National Geographic Global Networks.

Monroe joined National Geographic in 2012 and was promoted to lead the channel in 2014.

Bernstein steps into a new role as exec VP of global scripted content and documentary films.

Daniels, who was formerly in charge of the Nat Geo Wild channel, has been promoted to executive VP of global unscripted entertainment.

Bernstein will work in Los Angeles while Monroe and Daniels will be based in Washington D.C.

The National Geographic team is expected to operate separately from Disney, just as it did with Fox.

Monroe’s group will have little overlap with Disney operations and she will continue to report to Gary Knell, CEO of National Geographic Partners, the Fox and Nat Geo joint venture to be taken over by Disney.

What they’re saying:

CEO of National Geographic Partners Gary Knell: “We’re very excited to build on Courteney’s successful strategy, which has resulted in year-over-year growth, generated unprecedented critical acclaim and significantly raised the profile of National Geographic. I have no doubt that Courteney will continue to drive growth and success for our brand around the world.”

President and CEO of National Geographic Global Networks Courteney Monroe: “It has been the opportunity of a lifetime to lead the transformation of the National Geographic television business. I’m incredibly grateful to (Fox’s) Peter Rice and Gary for their ongoing support and leadership and I look forward to taking our brand and business to even greater heights as part of Disney’s expanded media portfolio.”